Exeter, August 24, 2025 – The Europe Today: France opened their Women’s Rugby World Cup campaign with a commanding 24-0 victory over Italy in a Pool D clash at Sandy Park on Saturday, marking a solid start to the tournament in England.
In a tightly contested first half, the scoreboard remained unchanged until the 27th minute when France wing Joanna Grisez broke the deadlock, finishing off a well-worked overlap to score the opening try. Full-back Morgane Bourgeois extended the lead with a penalty, giving Les Bleues a 10-0 advantage at the interval.
France pulled further ahead in the second half, with prop Assia Khalfaoui crossing the line after sustained forward pressure. Charlotte Escudero sealed the win just after the hour mark, capitalising on attacking momentum created by Grisez and fly-half Carla Arbez. Bourgeois maintained perfect accuracy from the tee, converting all three tries in addition to her penalty.
Despite the scoreline, Italy displayed resilience in defence, notably holding up France captain Marine Menager over the line in the first half. However, repeated defensive efforts eventually gave way under France’s forward dominance.
“We know we still have more to give,” said France co-coach David Ortiz after the match. “We can still develop and improve, but we need playing time. If we look at the fundamentals on which our game is based, we are clearly on track.”
The result confirmed France’s status as one of the tournament’s leading contenders, having failed to reach the semi-finals only once in their nine World Cup appearances. Italy, meanwhile, will take encouragement from their defensive display as they prepare for their remaining pool matches.
